In modern aquaculture, wild-type Nile tilapia are not too often seen, as their flesh has a dark color that is not much desired by many customers, and because it has a bit of a reputation of being a trash fish associated with poverty[2]. On the other hand, they are fast-growing and give good fillets; leucistic ("Red") breeds which have lighter meat have been developed and these are very popular.

Hybrid stock is also used in aquaculture; Nile × Blue Tilapia hybrids are usually rather dark, but a light-colored hybrid breed known as "Rocky Mountain White" tilapia is often grown due to its very light flesh and tolerance of low temperatures.[2]

The Nile Tilapia has recently been discovered in a small stream in central Arkansas. This invasive species may harm the other aquatic life present in this stream within the next few years, depending on quickly it is able to reproduce and how adapted it is to competition with other aquatic vertebrates. As of yet, there is evidence to support the possibility that the Nile Tilapia has established a strong breeding ground and will eventually endanger other fish species, possibly competitively exclude them.